Albania forest fires burn 33,500 hectares, cause €77 million damage in 2025

In 2025, 346 forest and woodland fires were recorded across Albania, affecting 33,524 hectares of forest and mountainous terrain. Of this area, 16,180 hectares were completely burned, destroying an estimated 128,598 cubic meters of timber while leaving only 25,634 cubic meters usable. The Albanian National Environment Agency calculates the direct economic loss to the national forest and woodland fund at about €77 million, not counting additional damage to homes, agriculture and livestock.

The southern Vlora district suffered the greatest impact, with 10.2 thousand hectares fully burned and an estimated €41 million in losses—over half of the nation’s total fire damage. Shkodra registered the highest number of incidents (37), while Gjirokastër recorded the second‑largest burned area and Elbasan lost the most timber volume. Human activity and extreme drought conditions were identified as the primary causes, with 23 fires linked to human actions, including three deliberate arsons.